Argentinians lament Messi's likely World Cup farewell after final loss

A heavy silence fell over a Buenos Aires cafe as the final whistle confirmed Argentina's defeat in the 2026 World Cup final against Spain. For many citizens, the loss transcended a mere sporting outcome; it signaled the impending farewell to Lionel Messi, their iconic captain.

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I feel a deep sense of emptiness. This was likely Messi's last stage.

Camilo Sítcher, 22, who watched the match at the cafe, told AFP, "I feel a deep sense of emptiness." He added, "This was likely Messi's last stage." His friend, Juan Sáenz, 22, teared up, saying, "The era of Messi, who has always been the best in the world since I was born, has ended like this."

Fans who paid exorbitant prices, with some tickets reportedly nearing $10,000 (approximately 15 million Korean won), for the chance to witness Messi's potential final World Cup match, expressed that the experience was priceless. Manuel López Makota told AP, "Money can always be earned again, but seeing the world's best player's last World Cup is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity." He emphasized that the cost was insignificant compared to the experience.

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The era of Messi, who has always been the best in the world since I was born, has ended like this.

Messi, who debuted in the World Cup in 2006 at age 18, has now participated in six tournaments. After a runner-up finish in 2014 and a championship win in 2022, many fans and media outlets consider the 2026 tournament his final appearance, given he will be 43 in 2030. Major Argentine newspapers reflected this sentiment. 'La Nación' ran a photo of a dejected Messi with the headline "The End of a Dream," while 'La Capital,' the country's oldest newspaper, stated, "Unless a miracle happens, Messi's World Cup is over," but praised his lasting legacy.

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Money can always be earned again, but seeing the world's best player's last World Cup is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This experience makes money insignificant.

Despite the loss, thousands of citizens gathered around the Obelisco monument in Buenos Aires, waving Argentine flags and chanting, "Leo, thank you. We will always support you." While Messi has not officially announced his retirement from international play, Argentina's coach, Lionel Scaloni, suggested he would continue playing for the national team as long as he chooses. Sports daily 'Olé' expressed hope that Messi might play in the 2030 World Cup at age 43.

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Leo, thank you. We will always support you.